Slot’s decision to take Rio Ngumoha off against Chelsea may have been explained by a muscle concern, but the reaction from Anfield still told its own story.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL EMPIRE OF THE KOP APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Liverpool fans clearly wanted to see more of the 17-year-old, and that says plenty about how quickly he has earned trust during a difficult season.
As we prepare for life after Mo Salah, the biggest question is whether we need a major signing, or whether one of our own can grow into the role.
Bacary Sagna backs Rio Ngumoha for Liverpool role
Speaking in an interview with Oddschecker, Bacary Sagna dismissed the idea that Michael Olise should be viewed as the perfect Salah replacement and instead pointed to Ngumoha.
The former Arsenal and Manchester City defender said: “If I had to choose someone to replace Salah at Liverpool, I would not buy someone special.
“I would give my confidence to Rio Ngumoha, and I would start him regularly.
“I think he’s ready to play regular games and to finally start his career.
“I think that’s probably why I think Liverpool are not scared to let Mohammed Salah go, because they know they have in Rio someone special, and he’s been proving he’s a great player.”
That is a huge show of faith in a teenager who only joined from Chelsea in September 2024, yet it also reflects what many Liverpool supporters have started to feel.
Ngumoha is still raw, and there will be games where the England youth international drifts in and out, but his confidence, ball-carrying and willingness to take responsibility make him one of the more exciting parts of our future.
Liverpool must protect Ngumoha’s pathway
Slot explained after the Chelsea draw that many supporters disagreed with the substitution, saying: “I knew this would be the reaction because he is such a good player.”
Stephen Warnock had a slightly different view, admitting: “I get the Ngumoha substitution,” before adding that the youngster hadn’t really affected the game enough.
Both things can be true, because Rio doesn’t need to be treated as untouchable, but we also shouldn’t block his pathway with a signing who leaves him watching from the bench every week.
Liverpool probably still need another young, hungry or versatile forward to help replace Salah’s output, but Sagna’s point is a fair one.
Ngumoha has shown enough to deserve confidence, and our next recruitment decision must make room for his progression rather than suffocate it.
How stupid is that if we done that we would burn him out in 6 months
Rio is a promising young boy.If he could be well nurtured and managed,he can be a force to be reckoned with. If truth is told, Gordon can be a good signing for LFC given his versatility. If LFC can sign him,Yamond as wingers,Wharton,Camara from Monaco,Dumfries, Cambiaso, Boston and get rid of Gakpo and McAllister,retain Jones and replace Slot with Ndonni Ioara ,LFC can compete for the league and CL in 2026/27 season.
Same problem, too much change too soon. We will not have a settled side/squad next season, same as this season – no cohesion, playing like 11 strangers with no plan A, B or C
That is completely right, Simon. Its as if you knew what was on my mind. If you are a shrewd LFC fan you would attest to what Simon has said. Nevertheless, there should be a proclivity of changes in those positions where it’s neeeded, but Gakpo should still remain at the club because he is still impactful and helpful whether you like it or not
He’s right-footed? Hence why he plays on the opposite wing from Salah.
Rio should be given more time than being on the bench – he’s proved to us that he can perform
We should sign Yan diomande he can play both wings he is both footed but am not saying Rio should be benched the can play Rio on the left side and diomande at the right side
With the chance of rotation also available